50 Dollars - Elizabeth II Golden Dove of Christmas

Historical Context: Issued in 1980, this 50 Dollars coin falls within Queen Elizabeth II's long reign, a period of evolving UK-Overseas Territory relations. The British Virgin Islands, a British Overseas Territory, frequently issued commemorative coinage to celebrate local culture and engage the international collector market. This 'Golden Dove of Christmas' exemplifies a numismatic trend towards festive, themed issues, reflecting global appreciation for holiday symbolism.

Artistry: The obverse features Arnold Machin's second-generation effigy of Queen Elizabeth II, a dignified, classical profile widely used across Commonwealth coinage. The reverse, depicting the 'Golden Dove of Christmas,' presents a symbolic and elegant design. While the reverse engraver is uncredited, its stylistic school aligns with late 20th-century commemorative art, characterized by naturalistic representation and symbolic meaning. The dove, a universal emblem of peace and goodwill, embodies the festive spirit.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .500 fine gold, this coin weighs 2.68 grams and measures 17.15 millimeters. The lower gold fineness, while precious, provides a durable planchet, primarily for collectors. For grading, key high-points on the obverse include the Queen's hair above the ear and tiara details. On the reverse, the delicate feathers and contours of the dove are critical for strike sharpness. Collectors should seek examples exhibiting a full, crisp strike, particularly on finer details, indicating a well-preserved specimen.